Burden 

Population: 514 (2021 Census Estimates)

Source: United States Census Bureau

Contact: City of Burden (620) 438-2360

FUN FACT: Burden, founded in 1879 as Burdenville after R.F. Burden, he lays at rest in the local Burden Cemetery. During the towns long history it one time had four passenger trains daily, two going east and two going west. 

Burden, the gateway to eastern Cowley County, is the hub of the local school district. Walking path, community swimming facility, in addition to the numerous activities, plus sports offered through the school and recreation commission appeal to the young and young at heart. Civic organizations, festivals, and local events offer family entertainment and ample opportunities for those seeking involvement in the community. Safety is a top priority for the community of Burden, the city erected a storm shelter at the community’s park, operates a local police department, and supports an outstanding volunteer fire department. Burden continues to invest in its downtown area by attracting small businesses and supporting local tourism initiatives.

Dining In Burden 

One-Stop
120 E. 5th, Burden, KS  
620.438.2877
Need gas, snacks, or drinks? You’ll find something to satisfy everyone’s craving here.

Ma's Cafe
421 W 5th, Burden, KS
620.438.2233
Monday - Wednesday - 8am-2pm
Thursday - 8am-7pm
Friday - 7am-7pm
Saturday - 7am-2pm
Sunday - Closed
 

Education

Public Education: Central of Burden: USD 462

620-438-2217 – www.usd462.org

• ACT scores exceeded state average in 2013; math and reading scores consistently well above state averages
• Only elementary school in county honored as “Rewards School” by Kansas Department of Education
• Junior/Senior High School implementing project-based learning for more hands on education

As a graduate of the Central School District, I feel fortunate that my kids now get to experience the same opportunities that a small school has to offer. With the smaller class size comes more individual attention tailored to the needs of each of the students.  We are fortunate to have such dedicated and caring people, from the administration, to the faculty, to the staff, taking care of our kids.

Burden serves as the hub for the local school system of the area. Central USD 462 combines the education of students living in Burden, Atlanta, Cambridge and Grenola into a well-oiled machine. They are known as the Central Raiders.

Fun and Entertainment In Burden 

PRCA Rodeo
When: September 18th 2021
Where: Burden Arena
What: Memorial Rodeo for Max Henderson
Contact: (620) 438-2360

Visit the Burden Arena Association Facebook page for information on upcoming PRCA Rodeos and other livestock events at the rodeo arena.
 

 Burden Dayz
The Second Saturday in September, Burden Dayz Come Get Your 'Merica On is a celebrations of community that includes a parade, food vendors, craft fair, rodeo, and Classic American Fun.

Cowley County Barn Quilts Trail
Burden has beautiful 22 Barn Quilts! Explore using the maps below:

Burden Barn Quilt Map
Cowley County Barn Quilts Trail

Cowley County Stone Arch Bridges
Seek out the 18 stone arch brides in Cowley County.
Historic Stone Arch Bridges of Cowley County

Forest Park and City Swimming Pool
Along Hwy 160 on west end of town.
Park: 620.438.2360 Swimming pool: 620.438.3322
The Burden City Park, officially named Forest Park, was established in 1886. The first three-day Eastern Cowley County fair was held in 1894 and continued to be a community tradition for almost 100 years. Infamous for the horse racing events that were held at the park for almost as long as the annual fair, the park and rodeo grounds is also the site for PRCA rodeos, another long-time tradition for the community. The PRCA Rodeo is held the second Saturday of September. Playground equipment, sand volleyball pit, concrete walking trail and park pavilion are some of the park amenities. Check out the original fire bell for the city at the entrance of the park.

Eastern Cowley County Historical Society
512 N Main Street, Burden
620.438.3526
Open by Appointment only

Businesses 

Thriving businesses in Burden include the followings:

Churches 

First Baptist Church
423 Elm Street, Burden
620.438.2563

United Methodist Church
118 E 6th Street, Burden
620.438.2357

The city is on Facebook.

401 N Main
PO Box 37
Burden, KS 67019
(620) 438-2360
Fax: (620) 438-2422
Office Hours: M-F 9:00 am-3:00 pm. Closed during the lunch hour 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. 

2024 Burden Consumer Confidence Report